Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is a part of the internet that is not indexed by standard search engines like Google or Bing. It can only be accessed using specific software, configurations, or authorization. This realm often carries a reputation for illegal activities but also serves as a platform for privacy-focused communications.
For example, you can configure the CyberGhost VPN app to automatically connect to a desired VPN server and open the Tor browser app on launch. On average, I had really good browsing speeds — .onion sites loaded in 2–3 seconds, HD videos loaded in 5 seconds, and there was only minor buffering at the start of the videos. ExpressVPN is my favorite VPN for browsing pages on the dark web in 2024 — it supports Tor traffic, provides excellent security and privacy features, and has very fast speeds. There are different categories — my favorite one is Multiple Choice, where you need to pick the most popular autocomplete answer for a random Google search (like “is it ok to swim with …”).
How Do You Get to the Dark Web?
- The dark web is part of the internet that isn’t visible to search engines and requires the use of an anonymizing browser called Tor to be accessed.
- By this time, it had caught the attention of law enforcement and politicians.
- The Silk Road was eventually shuttered by law enforcement agents in 2013.
- The world wide web is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to what is online.
Accessing the Dark Web requires this level of anonymity and security, and that’s where Tor becomes essential. The websites on the Dark Web have a special .onion suffix and are not accessible through regular browsers. Tor is the key that unlocks these sites, allowing you to access this hidden part of the internet while maintaining your anonymity. In a digital era where cyber threats constantly evolve, staying one step ahead is imperative for organizations aiming to safeguard their operational integrity. One significant yet often unexplored avenue for enriching threat intelligence is the dark web, a concealed segment of the internet notorious for harboring illicit activities.
The deep web is defined as the internet section that is not indexed by web crawlers. The dark web, on the other hand, is defined as a subsegment of the deep web that can be accessed only with special tools. While the former is used chiefly for legitimate day-to-day online activities, the latter is more anonymous and known for illegal transactions. This article reveals the top five key differences between the dark web and the deep web.
Getting to the dark web requires several steps and an understanding of the necessary tools and precautions. Follow the guide below:
When the dark web is mentioned online, it is usually in tandem with criminal marketplaces and arrests made by law enforcement agencies. Because privacy and anonymity are the hallmarks of the dark web, it’s easy to assume that everything that happens there is illegal. And while plenty of cybercrime does take place, the dark web is used legally as well. These groups develop their own sophisticated malware, sometimes combined with pre-existing tools, and distribute them through “affiliates”. IT professionals are well-versed in how to monitor and manage a company’s network and can work with you to build a comprehensive protection plan through sound maintenance and prevention practices. Weak passwords are one of the easiest ways that a hacker can break into your network and install ransomware.
Layers of encryption are taken off at each step (hence the onion metaphor) as the message reaches its intended target. Onion sites often use scrambled names that make their URLs difficult to remember, minimizing the odds of being reported to authorities. It’s possible to search the dark web using specialized dark web search engines like Grams or link lists like The Hidden Wiki.
1. Download the Right Software
The surface web is part of the iceberg above the water, visible and accessible to everyone. Then the deep web is right under the water – it’s less accessible, but basic swimming skills would be enough to get there. Meanwhile, the dark web is part of the iceberg deepest in the water – you’d need special diving equipment to reach it. ZDNET tested the best VPNs available based on speed, number of servers, security features, price, and more. ExpressVPN is our pick for the best VPN overall, thanks to its fast and reliable connection and the wide range of platforms it works on. A VPN will mask your location and stop the online breadcrumbs that can lead back to you.
To access the dark web, you need specialized software. The most common is the Tor Browser.
Accessing the dark web is not necessarily riskier than browsing the surface or deep web. And depending on what you’re using the dark web for, it may actually be safer because of its heightened privacy protections. To use the dark web safely, stick to recommended security practices, like clicking only on trusted links and using antivirus software. When data brokers get hacked, the stolen data can include compromised credit cards, social security numbers, and other data, depending on what was exposed in the breach. This is a common way for identity theft and doxing attacks to occur.
- Visit the official Tor Project website to download the Tor Browser.
- Ensure that you are downloading from the official site for safety.
- Install the browser just like any other application.
Smart Organizations Leverage The Dark Web To Fortify Security
2. Configure Your Security Settings
Before you go online, it’s crucial to adjust the security settings within the Tor Browser:
- Open the Tor Browser and navigate to the security settings.
- Set the security level to either Safer or Safest based on your needs.
- Consider disabling scripts and other features that might compromise your anonymity.
3. Connect to the Tor Network
Once you have the software installed and configurations set:
- Open the Tor Browser and click on the “Connect” button.
- Wait for the browser to establish a connection to the Tor network. This may take a few moments.
4. Navigate the Dark Web
After successfully connecting, you can start exploring. However, keep in mind:
- Dark web URLs typically end with .onion.
- Use directories like Ahmia or Dark Web Link to find sites.
Safety Precautions
When accessing the dark web, it’s crucial to take steps to safeguard your information:
- Utilize a VPN to add an extra layer of security.
- Never provide personal information on dark web websites.
- Avoid downloading files from untrusted sources.
- Be wary of scams and always verify site legitimacy.
FAQs
What is the difference between the deep web and dark web?
The deep web includes any content on the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines, while the dark web is a subset of the deep web specifically designed for anonymity and often hosts illicit activities.
Is it illegal to access the dark web?
Accessing the dark web is not inherently illegal; however, engaging in illegal activities like drug trafficking or hacking is against the law.
Can I be tracked on the dark web?
While the Tor network is designed for anonymity, users can still be tracked if they do not follow safety protocols, such as using a VPN or revealing personal information.
By understanding how to safely access the dark web and taking necessary precautions, users can navigate this hidden part of the internet while protecting their anonymity and security.
